Ask A Vet: Is It Safe to Drink From the Same Water Glass As My Cat?

Welcome to our weekly 'Ask a Vet from the SF SPCA' feature on 7x7.com. They've enlisted their Interim Co-President, Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, to answer your questions every week. Got a question for Dr. Scarlett? Ask away in the comments!

Q: Although I provide my cat a sparkling fresh bowl of water every day, I often catch her drinking from MY water glass. Is it safe for me to drink this water after she's sampled it? I hate to throw it out!

A: Your cat is telling you she has a preference…or, is simply naughty! My cat has me trained to acquiesce to her every desire and I am confident that your cat will train you well too. I suggest trying out a ceramic or glass water dish for her, as she seems to like the quality of the water in your glass. You can also designate a glass that is “hers” and give her water that way. I think most of us can survive drinking after our cats have stuck their tongue in our drinking water…but, have you ever watched your cat clean? A good way to put cat-tainted water to use is to pour it into her water dish or get some indoor plants.

While we can’t answer all of the questions here, please feel free to ask us during our Friday Twitter Ask the Vet Chat. If your animal’s problem is of an immediate nature, please call your vet or you can reach the SF SPCA at 415-554-3030 to make an appointment.